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Intercoccygeal Joints

articulationes intercoccygeae

The intercoccygeal joints are the small cartilaginous joints between the segments of the coccyx, joined by thin fibrocartilaginous discs. In young people the first intercoccygeal joint may stay mobile, but the segments commonly fuse during adult life, leaving the coccyx as a single bone.

Anatomical Data

Structure

Bones	Adjacent coccygeal vertebrae (usually four segments)
Ligaments	Extensions of the anterior and posterior sacrococcygeal ligaments

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Movements	Slight flexion and extension of the coccygeal segments, mainly when young and during sitting and defecation

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

A mobile or unstable first intercoccygeal joint is a recognised cause of coccydynia, demonstrated on dynamic sitting and standing radiographs. Falls onto the buttocks can sprain, sublux or fracture through these joints. Treatment is usually cushions, analgesia and injection, with coccygectomy reserved for persistent pain.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Coccydynia

Pain at the coccyx on sitting, often from hypermobility or instability at the sacrococcygeal or first intercoccygeal joint, managed with cushions, injection and rarely coccygectomy.

Coccygeal Fracture-Dislocation

Injury through an intercoccygeal joint from a fall onto the buttocks or childbirth, causing local pain and tenderness that usually settles with conservative care.

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